America's experience in World War II was nothing like that of its allies. While the British, French, Russians, and Chinese faced invasion, occupation, and unfathomable civilian casualties, Americans enjoyed full employment, high wages, and no destruction of the homeland.

That does not mean, of course, that the war did not bring suffering. Virtually every American family sent a loved one overseas. And at home, the unusual social, economic, and racial tensions that accompanied mobilization led to overcrowded cities and significant social unrest.